But Southampton, who must pay Bournemouth 25% of any fee for Lallana, released a statement insisting no more players will be sold until after they appoint a new manager to succeed Tottenham-bound Mauricio Pochettino:

"We are staying true to our plan and vision and, as a result, we have no need to accept any offers. We are deep in the process of appointing a new manager, who will continue to move our club forward.

"It remains our preference not to partake in any transfers until the new manager is in place. There may be circumstances under, which the club will feel it is right for a player to move on.

"Those circumstances have to be right for the club and the player. This is the case with Rickie's move to Liverpool."